Deciphering the Interplay of Age, Gender, Education, and Heart Rate in Dementia among the Elderly Population of Wakiso, Uganda

Introduction: Dementia, a critical public health concern, involves a complex interplay of risk factors that are prominently influenced by age.Aim: Our study, conducted in Wakiso, Uganda, aimed to investigate the intricate interactions among age, sex, heart rate, and education in relation to dementia.Methods: Using a cross-sectional design from February to July 2023, we sampled 106 individuals aged 65 years and older, focusing on Alzheimer's disease and related dementia.Results: The findings revealed an age-related increase in the risk of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and dementia, with a 1.19- and 1.22-times escalation, respectively, for each year. Being male demonstrated a protective effect against MCI, and education was correlated with a 28% risk reduction in MCI. The unclear association between education and dementia prompted further research. An elevated heart rate was significantly associated with a higher risk of both MCI and dementia. Sex did not affect the risk of developing dementia.Conclusion: Our study offers nuanced insights into dementia risk factors, emphasizing age susceptibility, sex distinctions, educational protection, and the cardiovascular dimension. Further research is essential to elucidate the mechanisms of and interventions for healthy cognitive aging.